Tuesday 24 September 2024
Enterprise minister Peter Burke has officially opened the Applied Polymer Technologies (APT) research facility at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Athlone Campus.
The facility represents a transformative investment in Ireland's polymer and medtech industries.
The €10m project began in 2022 and is a key component of a broader infrastructure initiative supported by the Higher Education Authority, Enterprise Ireland, and TUS.
Advanced processing laboratories
The facility features a comprehensive refurbishment and extension of existing premises, creating advanced processing laboratories, collaborative workspaces, and 60 additional desk spaces for students and staff.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Burke highlighted the government's commitment to empowering enterprise and innovation across the region.
He said: “The new Applied Polymer Technologies Gateway research facility will be pivotal in advancing technological innovation, offering essential research support and resources to businesses.
"Since its foundation, APT has significantly bolstered the global competitiveness of Irish-based companies in the polymer and medtech sectors. Through the continued funding of the Technology Gateway Programme, in partnership with the European Regional Development Fund, we have ensured that our Gateways, including APT, can continue to drive growth by fostering research and innovation.
“I would like to acknowledge the investment by the HEA and TUS as well as the support of Enterprise Ireland in bringing the new APT facility into being. This new facility will serve as a hub for cutting-edge research and development, fostering a collaborative environment where industry and academia can work together in a mutually beneficial manner."
TUS president Professor Vincent Cunnane said: "The new APT facility reaffirms TUS’s strategic vision of strengthening academic and industry partnerships. It is a beacon of excellence in polymer research, positioning TUS as a leader in Ireland's polymer and medtech sectors. Building on our 50-year legacy, we are proud to shape the future of polymer innovation across the midlands and beyond."
Innovative solutions
Dr Declan Devine, director of the PRISM Research Institute, which houses APT, further emphasised the centre’s role in supporting industry needs, said: "APT was established to directly address the requirements of the polymer industry by training expert researchers and providing innovative solutions.
"We look forward to expanding this offering through continued engagement with funders and industry partners. Our doors are always open to demonstrate how we can contribute to the growth and development of these crucial sectors."
Originally established in 2013 with funding from Enterprise Ireland, APT was created to support Ireland’s polymer and medtech sectors and other industries reliant on polymers and plastics.
The new facility reinforces the centre’s role as a crucial resource for national industries engaged in polymer research, innovation, and product development.
The APT Technology Gateway is co-funded by the government and the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27.